New Year in Tsuwano: First Shrine Visit to Taikodani Inari Shrine & the Center’s New Year Schedule

Merry Christmas from Tsuwano!

Snow began to fall this morning and with cooler temperatures expected throughout the week, winter has truly arrived here !
Here are a few tips to help keep your stay cozy, comfortable, and memorable.

1｜Celebrate the New Year in Tsuwano

At the start of the New Year, Tsuwano becomes lively with visitors heading to Taikodani Inari Shrine for their hatsumōde, first shrine visit of the year. As you walk through the vivid torii gates toward the main hall, you can also enjoy Tsuwano’s beautiful winter scenery.
Mornings and evenings can be quite cold, so we recommend warm clothing (gloves and a scarf) and comfortable walking shoes.

2｜Tips to Avoid Crowds: Park Near the Train Station & Walk to the Shrine

During the New Year holidays, traffic congestion is common—especially around the shrine—as many visitors arrive by car.

Instead, we recommend parking near the train station or in the tourist areas and walking to the shrine. A leisurely stroll through the historic castle town allows you to avoid heavy crowds while enjoying scenic photo spots and local shops along the way.
Public parking is available for ¥500 per day.

If you stop by our center, we will be happy to provide a free parking ticket for the public parking lot next to the train station.

3｜Take a Break & Learn at the Tsuwano Japan Heritage Center

Before or after your walk, be sure to stop by the Tsuwano Japan Heritage Center!
Admission is free, and you can enjoy informative videos and exhibits showcasing Tsuwano’s rich history and traditions. In addition to the main exhibition, the center offers:

・Paper Doll Craft Workshop with Washi Traditional Paper (¥500):
Popular with families, these handmade dolls can be completed in a short time and make a wonderful souvenir from your trip.

・Free Servings of Warm Local Herb Tea, “Mame-cha”
The center also offers a small rest area, free servings of local herb tea, free Wi-Fi, and phone charging stations for your convenience.

・Free English Audio Guide:
Our concierges are happy to provide explanations in English, and we also offer a free audio guide of the center. Just ask for it at the reception!

・Tsuwano Tourist Guides and Pamphlets

・A Souvenir Shop

4｜The Center’s Year-End & New Year Opening Schedule

• Dec 30 (Tue) & Dec 31 (Wed): Open as usual, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Jan 1 (Thu, holiday) – Jan 3 (Sat): Closed
• Jan 4 (Sun): Open as usual, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Jan 5 (Mon): Closed
• From Jan 6 (Tue) onward: Open as usual, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

If you’re visiting Tsuwano for the New Year, please contact the Tsuwano Tourism Association for details on New Year’s events!
Email: tsuwanok@tsuwano-kanko.net
(EN) https://www.facebook.com/TsuwanoInformation

For updates and beautiful winter photos, be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
And please feel free to get in touch through our Contact Form for information about the Tsuwano Japan Heritage.

Wishing you a year filled with warmth, happiness, and unforgettable journeys from everyone at the Tsuwano Japan Heritage Center!

May you stay warm & stay safe!